Poll reveals Scots will vote YES for independence

The forecast sparked panic among party leaders in Westminster, giving them just 10 days to save the union from breaking up.

It is the first time the Yes campaign has taken a lead since the referendum was announced two years ago.

Only a month ago the “No” lobby had a huge poll lead of 22%.

But in a result that caused a political earthquake, 51% of Scots who showed an opinion to YouGov said they would vote Yes to splitting with the UK, with No down to 49%.

Labour leader Ed Miliband said that manned border posts could be introduced if the Scots break away.

He warned: “It would have to be looked at. If you don’t want borders, vote to stay in the United Kingdom.”

Labour would struggle to win a General Election without their huge number of Scots MPs.

Tory leader David Cameron would also struggle to hold on to his job if the union is broken up. He will this week try to head off the Yes campaign by promising new powers on tax and welfare to the Scottish Parliament.

“Many are angry that the bedroom tax was imposed upon Scots against their will while at the same time the very wealthy received tax cuts”

Gordon Brown, former Prime Minister

Chancellor George Osborne said yesterday that Scots would get the “best of both worlds” if they reject independence.

Mr Cameron has admitted he is feeling “emotional and nervous” ahead of the vote on September 18.

It comes as Gordon Brown blamed the Conservatives’ unpopular policies for the vote being so tight.

The former Labour Prime Minister said: “Many are angry that the bedroom tax was imposed upon Scots against their will while at the same time the very wealthy received tax cuts.”